Chamber of Commerce - FAQs

Activities of the ChamberThe De Soto Chamber of Commerce assists its members and the community by:

Being a resource for area businesses to grow and succeed.

Attracting new business to broaden De Soto's tax base and strengthens the economy.

Promoting De Soto as a great place to live and work to potential residents.

Providing business referrals - an exclusive benefit for Chamber members.

Creating and maintaining a climate for business growth and strong quality of life.

Staying in tune with governmental activities which impact area businesses.

Providing increased visibility for your business.

What are the benefits of being a Chamber member?

Benefits of MembershipBeing a member of the De Soto Chamber of Commerce has its advantages! As a member, you receive the following outstanding benefits:

Membership DirectoryEach June, the Chamber produces its Chamber Membership Directory, which lists all members by category, as well as alphabetically. This directory is very popular, as it is distributed to all businesses, potential residents and prospects. Directory advertisements opportunities are available. Members also enjoy the exclusive referrals from the directory as copies are included in the New Resident Packet...what a great way to introduce yourself to new members of the community!

Internet Presence on Chamber websitesMembers receive a free listing in the Chamber's online Membership Directory. The listing provides basic company contact information. For a small yearly fee, a company can have a direct link to the member's web site. For those companies that do not have a web presence, a basic web page can be produced to provide information about your company. For more information, please contact the Chamber office.

Chamber Luncheon SponsorsWhat a great way to publicize and promote your company! The Chamber has sponsorships available for your company sponsor a Chamber luncheon. Sponsors have the opportunity to showcase their company at the meeting as well as receive recognition as the monthly underwriter.

Employment Opportunity AdvertisingTo assist in member's recruitment activities, the Chamber has created a special online Position Announcements section, where members may post employment ads at no charge.

Networking OpportunitiesMeet business people and community leaders at Chamber events, which provide wonderful opportunities to network and give your organization visibility in the community through Coffees, After Hours and other networking events. These events provide great networking opportunities and the promotion of your business!

Chamber LuncheonsHeld monthly on the second Thursday of each month at various businesses throughout our community, these networking events are attended by Chamber members, representatives and community leaders. These meetings provide great opportunities to highlight your businesses and services. Check the Community Calendar for upcoming Chamber Luncheons, and bring a guest!

Chamber Fundraising ActivitiesWe're constantly finding ways to promote the Chamber and provide funding for additional initiatives that will promote your business! Stay tuned as we develop new and exciting fundraising activities that will again provide your company with additional networking opportunities!

Ribbon Cuttings/Ground Breakings/Grand OpeningsWelcome De Soto's newest businesses and introduce your business and its services! These functions are free to all new businesses in the community and are a great way to network.

Annual Business MeetingThe Chamber Annual Meeting will be held in January of each year. This is a well-attended event which in 2010 had an attendance of over 185! For more information, please visit the Community Calendar.

Perhaps the biggest benefit of your Chamber membership comes from involvement with the organization and its special events. Your participation in the Chamber builds a better community while building professional relationships by networking with fellow members. The Chamber encourages its members to participate in Chamber activities by becoming an event sponsor, donating in-kind items, serving as volunteers and attending the events. We're constantly working on ways to improve our services and provide even more benefits to you!

What are the membership dues and how do I join the Chamber?

Membership Dues, 2011

Membership dues are based on the number of full-time employees:0-5 employees $1506-50 employees $21551+ employees $425

New memberships are prorated by quarter. The membership drive campaign begins in November and should be remitted by January 31st.

Join the De Soto Chamber of Commerce!

To join the De Soto Chamber of Commerce, contact Sara Ritter, or click on Join the Chamber to pay via credit card and submit online.?Checks can be mailed to: De Soto Chamber of Commerce, P.O. Box 70, De Soto, KS 66018.